ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA — November 14, 2008 — The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) will join the National Education Association (NEA) in celebrating its 87th Annual American Education Week from November 16-22, 2008. American Education Week's annual theme, "Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility" highlights quality education from kindergarten all the way up to college and emphasizes the collaborative teamwork necessary to make public schools great places for all students to learn and grow academically.

DoDEA Director, Dr. Shirley A. Miles, commented on the importance teachers' play in the lives of the children of military families.

"American Education Week is a time for us to focus on the service of our educators and thank them for their constant dedication in educating our children. While a week is not nearly enough time to recognize all of the many contributions that teachers make in the lives of children, we honor the many people that have devoted their entire lives to educating other people's children," she said.

"Much like our military service members who give of their time, energy and expertise to the country, so do our teachers. The lessons that students learn from their teachers will help shape the lives of the children who are going to be the leaders of tomorrow and are lessons that they will remember for the rest of their lives."

American Education Week began as an annual event in December 1921 to combat the illiteracy and lack of physical fitness that was so prevalent with American youth during the aftermath of World War I. American Education Week now has 13 national co-sponsors including the National PTA, the National Education Association, the American Federation of Teachers and the U.S. Department of Education.

Many schools across the nation including DoDEA schools will host events and activities designed to strengthen the bonds between schools and communities. Some of these events include Open House Day, Parents Day, Education Support Professionals Day, Educator for a Day and Substitute Educators Day. During American Education Week, teachers, school staff and parents are honored for the contributions that they make every day in the lives of students.

DoDEA plans, directs, coordinates, and manages the education programs for Department of Defense dependents who would otherwise not have access to a high-quality public education. DoDEA consists of the Department of Defense Dependents Schools located overseas, and the Department of Defense Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools located in the United States and its territories and possessions. DoDEA provides education to eligible DoD military and civilian dependents from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. DoDEA also provides support and resources to Local Education Activities throughout the U.S. that serve children of military families.

For specific information pertaining to the events that will be sponsored in DoDEA schools in your area, please contact a local school principal. To learn more visit NEA's website at http://www.nea.org/aew.

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